International Payroll Manager

Overview

An organization is seeking an experienced International Payroll Senior Manager to join their global finance operations team on a contract basis. This role involves managing payroll operations across EMEA and APAC regions, ensuring compliance with local labor laws, tax regulations, and corporate policies. The position is remote (US-based) and W2 only, starting as a 3-month contract with potential extension.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the end-to-end payroll cycle for thousands of employees across EMEA and APAC jurisdictions
• Manage relationships with Global Managed Service Providers and conduct periodic RFPs to ensure cost-effectiveness
• Partner with IT to ensure seamless data integration between Workday HCM, E*Trade, third-party vendors, and global payroll systems
• Review off-cycle payroll, ensure timely check processing, and audit payroll reports for accuracy
• Handle escalated payroll inquiries and resolve issues promptly
• Collaborate cross-functionally with HR on new hire onboarding, terminations, and leaves of absence
• Develop and maintain internal controls to ensure quality, efficiency, and regulatory compliance across payroll functions
• Coordinate with Finance/Treasury to ensure international bank accounts are funded and currency conversions are managed to prevent delays
• Lead internal and external audits and maintain payroll records in an audit-ready state
• Identify and drive improvements in payroll systems, policies, and processes, championing automation and scalability
• Manage complex payroll scenarios for expatriates, digital nomads, and shadow payroll arrangements
• Monitor legislative changes across jurisdictions to ensure ongoing compliance and mitigate legal risk
• Drive change management and successful adoption of payroll process updates across the organization
• Mentor and develop payroll team members on technical knowledge, customer service, and professional growth

Requirements

• 12–15+ years of payroll experience, with at least 5 years in a multinational environment
• Hands-on experience with Workday HCM (required)
• Experience with payroll, time & attendance, HRIS, and third-party payroll service providers
• Strong project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including change management and stakeholder education
• Strong analytical and decision-making capabilities
• Proven ability to design, improve, and scale operational processes
• Demonstrated success delivering results through cross-functional influence and collaboration
• Self-starter mentality with the ability to lead and drive results independently

Preferred Qualifications

• Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) certification
• Experience with E*Trade or similar equity/stock plan platforms
• Background in implementation and systems integration projects
• Prior experience in a high-growth tech or SaaS environment

Education

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Human Resources, or a related field required

Compensation & Benefits

• $75/hour
• 3-month contract with potential for extension
• Fully remote
• W2 only; no C2C or third-party contractors

Location

• Remote (US-based)